Should You Be Using An Ice Therapy Machine For Speedy Recovery After Orthopedic Surgeries?

Ice therapy (cold therapy) can be helpful for patients to recover faster post orthopedic surgeries. However, it needs to be administered efficiently for it to work well. In this regard, using an ice therapy machine instead of traditional ice packs can be very beneficial for patients.

Ice therapy is the application of freezing temperature over the wounds or injuries. It works by temporarily numbing the nerves and halting the blood supply to the area of application. It results in reduced swelling, which in turn helps to lessen the pain.

Ice therapy is often an integral part of patients’ recovery program post their orthopedic surgeries. Its effectiveness helps them start their physical therapy without any delays; in some cases even sooner than expected. For instance, ice therapy helps patients regain range of motions in their joint after knee replacement surgeries sooner than possible without the added benefits of this natural healing modality.

Speedy reduction in swelling and pain also makes it possible for patients to not rely on medicines for relief. Pain medicines can lead to dependency in patients with their long-term use, which can lead to other health problems.

Use of Ice Therapy Machines for Speedy Recovery Post Surgeries

To maximize the benefits of ice therapy, it is best to deliver it using special devices. These devices are specially designed for efficient delivery of ice therapy.

An ice therapy machine (or a cold therapy unit) consists of several components such as a tank, a pump, a tube, a healing pad, and an adapter designed using different technologies. For example, IsoComforter ice therapy machines are designed using the patented Iso Tube technology. Use of this advanced technology in IsoComforter machines helps in the delivery of ice therapy in the most efficient way possible.

Use of machines also enables patients to administer ice therapy consistently. During the post-operative period, patients may need to administer ice therapy on the surgical site at least 2-3 times daily for the duration of 15-20 minutes per session or as recommended by their doctors. Such consistent practice is not convenient to follow with tradition ice packs. It is simply not comfortable to hold the ice pack in place over the surgical site for prolonged periods without experiencing fatigue. Alternatively, you may need another person to hold the ice pack for you if you wish to avoid the discomfort of doing so by yourself.

Use of ice packs is also not safe as the dripping water on the surgical wounds can increase your chances of getting post-operative infections. Ice packs are also uneven; resulting in inefficient delivery of cold therapy.

Portable ice machines such as those available from IsoComforter can also enable patients to use cold therapy on the move without having to miss any healing sessions.